India's Mental Health Crisis: 1 in 7 Affected

A significant portion of India's population, one in seven individuals, is affected by mental health disorders. Experts highlight that several states grapple with a treatment gap between 70% and 90%, underscoring a critical need for improved access to care.

The Union Budget for 2026-27 has responded by announcing the establishment of a second National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS-2) in North India. This strategic move aims to bolster regional mental healthcare infrastructure and services.

Mental and neurological disorders are recognized as major contributors to disability in India. Strengthening the capacity of tertiary mental health institutions and expanding specialized services are identified as crucial priorities to meet the escalating healthcare demands.

The proposed NIMHANS-2 in North India is expected to significantly enhance advanced clinical care, boost training capacity, and foster research and innovation in neurosciences, addressing a current deficit in specialized neuro-psychiatric care facilities in the region.

Discussions also explored the creation of a National Brain-Mind Cloud Network to unify mental health records and utilize AI-based screening tools. This network would connect premier institutions and healthcare centers for data-driven decision support and coordinated care delivery.

Experts emphasized an integrated approach, advocating for a hub-and-spoke model supported by digital health platforms. This model would extend specialist consultations and clinical support from tertiary institutions to district hospitals and community-level facilities, ensuring broader access to mental health services.